Meet Our Panelists: Lourdes of Masagana Flower Farm & Studio
Lourdes Still (she/her) has created such a beautiful, magical space out at Masagana Flower Farm & Studio.
We’ve been following along for a while and have been so captivated and inspired as we’ve watched her build up her farm (and studio) literally from the ground up.
We are so excited to have Lourdes a part of our Flower Friend Panel for Camp Rover Conference 2024.
Get to know Lourdes a little more through a little interview we did.
What is the hardest part about what you do?
As a flower farmer, the changing climate is one of the hard parts of the job. I can make a whole lot of plans on the planting schedule for example but it always comes down to what the weather is like every day. The other thing would be believing in myself. Entrepreneurship is a rollercoaster ride and the bumps along the way can be demoralizing. It's inner work to find ways how to bounce back and have the courage to be self-lead.
What is the all-time dream part of your job? The thing you still pinch yourself that you get to do? And, tell the people how often you actually get to do it.
Being able to inspire others to find joy in their life. When I host my tinta experiences at the farm, I know what I am putting out there for my guests and that teaching them how to interact with plants and flowers as natural dye sources. But I always see myself as their guide in letting nature lead them in nurturing their creative selves through the art of natural dyeing. It's my joy and I hope that I'm able to inspire them to find theirs. If that’s flowers, great!
If you could tell your Day 1, starting a biz self one thing what would it be?
There would be sacrifices to be made especially at the beginning. Farming is hard but also fulfilling. Make resting part of the plan. Don't wait until your body catches up with you!
Someone wants to get into Flower Farming. What advice - from an expert - would have saved you a lot of time, sweat, and tears?
There will always be a learning curve in any endeavour you put your heart and mind into and the sweat, blood and tears will be a part of it. You will learn what you need to learn in your time. But be curious, try things out and don't be afraid of making mistakes or failing. I like what Kelly said about finding someone in your industry who can be your safe space to share all the emotions that come with owning a business. It will take a lot of vulnerability on your part but it's worth taking that risk.
Fun fact about you?
I recently learned how to play the ukulele! I love it and I have two! A traditional one and a banjo ukelele.
Fav book? Fav show? Your All-time go-to movie while working?
A Profession of Hope by Jenna Butler. I love Friends and Gilmore Girls while working.
Any closing thoughts for the Camp Rover Community?
I am looking forward to the connections I am going to make at Camp Rover Conference 2024
